UN Conferences and Constructivist Governance of the Environment
Author(s)
Haas, Peter M.
Abstract
Examines the history and role of global environmental conferences. UN conferences on the environment are reviewed from their inception as part of a wider effort to solve global problems. The multiple functions of these conferences included mobilizing concern about new problems; coordinating actions to study and monitor environmental quality; developing cooperative ways to prevent environmental degradation; and endorsing new policy doctrines. An analysis of the most important conferences held between 1972 and 1997 evaluates their effectiveness in terms of observable environmental impact; impact on national policies; global agenda setting; consciousness raising; identification of new challenges/threats; adoption of new norms; spearheading administrative reform; and promoting mass involvement.
